A. I wanted to
help striving actors like myself by interviewing other
actors (at all different levels of their career) and asking them
how they are
making it with their "day jobs" and dealing with the
financial and
creative pressures of pursuing a career in acting.

Q. What are some of the sacrifices that were made to establish
yourself in your career?

A. I have yet to be
professionally established! However, I am still working as a
receptionist in my mid-30's while my friends have started families and
have houses. I'm not sorry or ashamed that I am still doing an
office job, because it allows me the opportunity of acting in theatre at
night and showcasing myself as an actor. When I make the
connection with an agent, I will go back to temp work so I can have the
freedom to audition for roles.

Q. What are some of the benefits and challenges to working as a
performer?

A. The benefits are tremendous. I'm not content or happy unless I
am involved in theatre. It's part of me, it's in my blood.
So, I have to be true to myself and do what I love. I could take a
job with more responsibility,
but I wouldn't have the energy or focus left for my acting, and that
won't
do. The challenges are again, living at a lower income (due to only
doing
temp jobs) and keeping the faith and belief in myself strong, so that I
can
keep going forward in my acting.

Q. What are some of the trends that you see occurring in show
business in the next five years?

A. Speaking in Theatrical terms: I see a resurgence of the
old-fashioned
musical happening on Broadway, and I see women getting more involved in
television and film (i.e. Lifetime, Oxygen, and WE networks)
Q. What advice do you have for aspiring performers?

A. Keep going! Believe me, if you truly know that you NEED to act,
then
keep acting! Even if it's in a little theatre, or on a commercial,
keep
moving forward. Also, get some kind of occupation that can
sustain you and at the same time allow you free time to audition and
pursue an agent. Usually, you are talented at something else
BESIDES acting. Cultivate that and have it sustain you financially
while you pursue your craft.

Q. What are some of the biggest mistakes that aspiring performers
make in the beginning of their careers?

A. Don't trust everyone! There are quacks out there, especially in
the
acting field. If a director/producer asks you to do something that
you know is dangerous (like a stunt) or you don't feel comfortable with,
tell them. Don't be afraid of them. Yes, people can help your
career, but if you have to compromise your integrity, don't do it.
Trust your gut instincts. They will usually tell you if something's
wrong. Also, make sure (again) that you have a way to make
some kind of living while you pursue acting. That way you won't be
stressed out about bills, and being able to afford dinner the next day!